How much more improved can the Houston Texans be in 2026?
The Texans, despite an 0-3 start to the 2025 season, managed to rattle off 12 wins in their final 14 games to make the postseason and secure the most victories in a season since 2012. Much like in past years, Houston won the wild-card round game over the Pittsburgh Steelers, but was overmatched in the divisional round loss to the New England Patriots.
There are very few questions surrounding the defense entering this year and in the future. Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. combined for over 24 sacks last season and are locked up through 2027. The No. 2 secondary only improved with the addition of Philadelphia Eagles starter Reed Blankenship.
When looking at Houston, its defense needs to be the backbone of the team once more. There are reasons to believe that while the offense should turn the corner, all attention must be on the defensive side as it sets the tone in practice and on Sundays as the franchise looks to finally make a run to the AFC title game for the time in team history.
Here’s a look at the Pro Football Focus grades from 2025 featuring this year’s projected starters on defense, where it was mostly high marks across the board.
PFF grades (2025) for Texans’ projected starters on defense:
The Texans return to practice for the start of training camp on July 21. Veterans will take the feild the following week on July 28.
This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: PFF grades for Texans’ projected starting 2026 defense
Reporting by Cole Thompson, Texans Wire / Texans Wire
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By Cole Thompson, Texans Wire | USA TODAY Network
